The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has arrived with a fervour unlike any other season. Following a historic international cycle, the league returns to its roots of high-octane drama, tactical masterclasses, and the perennial quest for the prestigious trophy. As the schedule unfolds, one of the most anticipated opening clashes features the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) taking on the Rajasthan Royals (RR). While the rivalry is legendary, the narrative this year has shifted toward a massive personnel change: Sanju Samson donning the yellow jersey.

Irfan Pathan’s tactical breakdown about how Sanju Samson’s role against RR could give CSK the edge

Former Indian all-rounder and veteran analyst Irfan Pathan believes Samson’s transition to CSK provides the Super Kings with an unprecedented psychological and tactical edge. Speaking on JioStar’s ‘TATA IPL: Schedule Announcement’ show, Pathan highlighted that Samson’s value extends far beyond his batting prowess.

“Sanju Samson’s presence will make a lot of difference for CSK because no one knows Rajasthan Royals better than him,” Pathan noted. He emphasized that Samson offers inside information regarding RR’s core philosophy—how they structure their Powerplay, their mid-innings rotation, and the specific mindsets of their bowling unit.

Because many of the current RR youngsters developed under Samson’s captaincy, Pathan argues that CSK now possesses the blueprint to dismantle them. Furthermore, the first game’s location in Guwahati plays into Samson’s hands. Having led the Royals in numerous games at their secondary home ground, his familiarity with the local conditions and wind factors provides CSK with a local captain’s perspective in a neutral-ish territory.

“All the youngsters in Rajasthan Royals have played with and under Sanju, so he will be a huge advantage for CSK, not just in terms of the form he will carry from the T20 World Cup, but the experience of playing in Guwahati will also come in handy for him in the first game. I am very excited to see how CSK are going to fare this season because they have brought in some very exciting young players,” he added.

Also WATCH: Varun Chakravarthy, Washington Sundar fulfil 14 km Girivalam vow in Tiruvannamalai following T20 World Cup 2026 victory

From World Cup hero to CSK’s middle-order powerhouse

The hype surrounding Samson isn’t just based on his leadership history; it is fueled by his status as the most dangerous T20 batter in the world right now. Samson enters IPL 2026 fresh off a legendary performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, where he was crowned Player of the Tournament.

Samson’s statistics from the World Cup are staggering, reflecting a player at the absolute peak of his powers:

• Total Runs: 321 runs in just five innings.
• Average: A phenomenal 80.25.
• Strike Rate: A blistering 199.37.

The 31-year-old was the architect of India’s third world title, delivering three consecutive half-centuries in the quarter-final, semi-final, and the final against New Zealand. This momentum is exactly what CSK has lacked in previous transition phases. By integrating a player who can dismantle both spin and pace with a near-200 strike rate, CSK has effectively weaponized their middle order.

As the yellow army prepares for the Rajasthan challenge, they do so with the confidence that their new recruit knows the opposition’s secrets and possesses the form to exploit them. For the fans, the sight of Samson leading the charge against his former stable is set to be the defining image of the IPL 2026 opening week.

Also READ: Anil Kumble names 2 greatest teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL)

The anticipation surrounding the Indian Premier League (IPL) continues to grow as the 2026 season approaches, with fans eagerly waiting for another thrilling edition of the world’s most popular T20 franchise tournament. The new season is scheduled to begin on March 28, bringing together top international stars and emerging Indian talents in what promises to be a fiercely competitive campaign.

Every IPL season carries enormous expectations, not just for teams but also for star players who shoulder leadership responsibilities. With franchises assembling powerful squads and fine-tuning their strategies, discussions around team combinations and batting orders have already started gaining momentum. Former India batter Suresh Raina recently shared his thoughts on how the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) should structure their batting lineup, particularly regarding the role of their captain Rishabh Pant.

Suresh Raina picks the batting order for Rishabh Pant in LSG lineup

During a discussion on Star Sports, Raina suggested that Lucknow should consider promoting Pant up the batting order to maximize his impact. According to the former Chennai Super Kings star, Pant could be more effective batting at No. 3 rather than lower down the order.

Raina explained that LSG’s middle order might struggle if early wickets fall, especially in high-scoring chases. To avoid a collapse and maintain momentum, he proposed a slightly reshuffled batting order.

“If four batters get out, there is a sort of commotion down the order. Abdul Samad has come after winning the Ranji Trophy, but when you chase 210 or 220, I feel they will have to tweak a little there. Get Rishabh Pant at No. 3 and play Nicholas Pooran at No. 4. Abdul Samad is at No. 5, and you will have to fit Ayush Badoni in between. You have a left-arm spinner in Shahbaz Ahmed, who also bats very well,” Raina said.

Raina further highlighted that Pant and Nicholas Pooran would have a crucial role if the openers fail to provide a solid start. He also expressed confidence that the LSG captain could adopt a more aggressive approach this season.

“They don’t have a heavy-hitter from No. 5 to No. 8. I feel that even if two players get out from the top, Rishabh Pant and Nicholas Pooran have a very important role. He will have to justify his captaincy this time. I feel Rishabh will do slightly differently this season and will be more fearless this year,” Raina added.

Also READ: Faf du Plessis picks a player who will be ‘under most pressure’ in IPL 2026

Star-studded side ready for the big challenge

LSG enter IPL 2026 with a powerful squad and renewed ambitions after a disappointing campaign last season. The franchise finished seventh in IPL 2025 and missed out on the playoffs, prompting them to reshape their squad for the upcoming tournament.

Pant will lead the side as captain after being retained for ₹27 crore, making him one of the most valuable players in the league. The team is also supported by strategic advisor Kane Williamson, whose experience is expected to help shape the team’s tactical approach.

LSG’s biggest strength lies in its pace attack, which could arguably be one of the fastest bowling units in IPL history. The lineup features the exciting pace of Mayank Yadav along with international stars Anrich Nortje and Mohammed Shami.

Their batting unit is equally formidable, boasting big hitters like Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh alongside Pooran. Meanwhile, Wanindu Hasaranga adds quality spin and valuable lower-order batting.

Despite the star power, questions remain about the injury history of some key fast bowlers and the lack of experienced finishers in the lower middle order. Lucknow will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 1, hoping their high-risk, high-reward strategy can finally deliver their maiden IPL title.

Also READ: IPL 2026: BCCI announces schedule for the first phase; RCB to take on SRH in the opening contest

In the high-octane world of international cricket, where statistics and strike rates often dominate the conversation, it is the quiet, human moments that truly resonate with fans. Following India’s historic triumph at the T20 World Cup 2026, all-rounder Shivam Dube has set social media ablaze, not with a towering six, but with a deeply personal gesture of gratitude.

Shivam Dube celebrates World Cup glory with father in touching medal moment

In a video that has since gone viral, Dube was seen placing his winner’s medal around the neck of his father, the man he credits for his meteoric rise in Indian cricket.

The footage captures a poignant exchange, Dube’s father, proudly donning the iconic blue Indian jersey, beams with pride as the gold medal rests against his chest. Accompanying the video was a caption that struck a chord with millions, where Dube simply referred to his father as his ‘real hero.’ This public acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by families behind the scenes, long before the bright lights of the stadium are turned on. The post drew immediate attention from celebrities and teammates alike, with veteran actor Anil Kapoor and several cricketing legends leading the chorus of praise in the comments.

Here’s the video:

Dube’s vital role in India’s third T20I title

While the emotional homecoming has captured hearts, Dube’s performance on the field was the bedrock of his success. Throughout the 2026 campaign, he emerged as a versatile asset for captain Suryakumar Yadav. Emerging as India’s fourth-highest run-scorer, Dube amassed 235 runs across nine matches, boasting an impressive average of 39.16 and a blistering strike rate of 169.06. His ability to take down spinners in the middle overs proved decisive in high-stakes encounters against Pakistan and New Zealand.

However, it was his nerves of steel with the ball that arguably defined his tournament. Entrusted with the final over of a pulse-pounding semi-final against England, Dube held his ground despite the immense pressure. Reflecting on that moment via BCCI’s official channel, Dube admitted to the nerves, stating, “I knew the first two balls of the over would be crucial… bowling the final over of a World Cup semi-final is always challenging.” His five wickets over the course of the tournament may not tell the whole story, but his willingness to bowl in clutch situations made him an indispensable part of the squad.

Also READ: Anil Kumble names 2 greatest teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL)

From World Cup glory to the people’s champion

Dube’s journey back from the final in Ahmedabad further solidified his status as a people’s champion. Due to the unavailability of late-night flights following the grand finale on March 8, the World Champion was spotted traveling via train, a rare sight for modern-day cricketing superstars. This grounded approach has only added to the ‘Dube Mania’ sweeping the nation.

As the celebrations wind down, the focus now shifts to the domestic circuit. Dube is slated to join the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for IPL 2026, where fans are eager to see if he can carry this golden form into the franchise season. For now, however, the image of a son honouring his father remains the defining snapshot of India’s World Cup glory.

Also READ: Hardik Pandya faces legal complaint for celebrating T20 World Cup title with girlfriend Mahieka Sharma while wearing Indian flag

The T20 World Cup 2026 Final will be remembered for India’s historic 96-run victory over New Zealand, but a heated exchange between Arshdeep Singh and Daryl Mitchell has sparked a deeper conversation about the spirit of cricket. Following a flare-up that resulted in a 15% match-fee fine and a demerit point for Arshdeep, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has weighed in with a characteristically blunt verdict: he wouldn’t have cared if the apology never happened.

The incident unfolded during the 11th over of New Zealand’s chase. After being smoked for two consecutive sixes by Mitchell, Arshdeep’s competitive fire boiled over. Following the fifth delivery, a throw from the bowler struck Mitchell, leading to a visible confrontation. While Arshdeep later offered a heartfelt apology, captured in a viral video by the BlackCaps, Gambhir believes the raw emotion displayed is exactly what high-stakes cricket demands.

Gautam Gambhir breaks silence on Arshdeep Singh’s on-field gesture to Daryl Mitchell

Gambhir has never been one to shy away from on-field friction, and his coaching style reflects that grit. Speaking to ANI, Gambhir made it clear that while he respects Arshdeep’s sportsmanship, he prioritizes the killer instinct required to defend a world title.

“You’re representing your country. You’re bound to show aggression. There’s nothing wrong with that,” Gambhir stated to ANI. He emphasized that no elite bowler enjoys being hit for boundaries, and the subsequent reaction was a natural byproduct of elite competition. For Gambhir, the apology was a nice gesture, but entirely optional. He added, “Even if sorry is not said, I was absolutely fine with it. On a cricket field, there are no friends.”

This white-line fever approach is a hallmark of the current Indian setup. By backing Arshdeep, Gambhir is sending a clear message to his squad: intensity is a requirement, not a recommendation. While the ICC viewed the incident as a breach of the Code of Conduct, the Indian camp views it as the heartbeat of a champion side.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir hits back at Kirti Azad for questioning India team’s temple visit after T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

India defend the T20I crown with a record-breaking triumph

Beyond the disciplinary drama, the 2026 final cemented India’s status as a T20 powerhouse. By defeating the BlackCaps, India became the first men’s team to successfully defend a T20 World Cup title, following their 2024 glory. Chasing a massive 256, New Zealand was dismantled for 159, with the pressure applied by Arshdeep and his fellow pacers proving too much for the Kiwis to handle.

Arshdeep, despite the 0/32 figures and the mid-match tension, remained a pivotal figure in the campaign. His post-match interaction with Mitchell, where he joked that his throw reverse-swung into the batter, showed a level of maturity that balanced Gambhir’s requested aggression.

The fine might lighten Arshdeep’s wallet, but Gambhir’s public support likely strengthens the youngster’s resolve. As India celebrates its third T20 World Cup trophy, the narrative has shifted from a disciplinary slip-up to a discussion on the evolving identity of Indian cricket: a team that wins with skill, but isn’t afraid to show its teeth when the heat is on.

Also WATCH: Ishan Kishan reacts after Kirti Azad questions Indian team’s temple visit following T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

The uncertainty surrounding global travel due to the ongoing West Asia conflict has sparked discussions about whether the Indian Premier League (IPL) could face disruption this year. Regarding the same, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice-President Rajeev Shukla has provided the much-needed update.

Rajeev Shukla opens up on Iran war impacting IPL 2026

Speaking about the situation, Mr Shukla stated that the tournament will go ahead according to the existing plan. Notably, the BCCI has already released the schedule for the opening phase of the season, while the remaining fixtures will be finalized once the Election Commission of India announces polling dates for the states heading into assembly elections.

Mr Shukla explained that the board has adopted a phased approach to scheduling in order to accommodate potential logistical challenges arising from the election process. According to him, only the first set of matches has been released for now, while the rest of the tournament schedule will follow after clarity on election dates.

“IPL will be held as per schedule. We have released the schedule for 20 matches. The schedule for remaining matches will be released after the Election Commission announces the dates for states going to the election,” Mr Shukla said as quoted by NDTV.

West Asia conflict raises travel concerns for international players

While the IPL schedule itself remains unaffected, the ongoing conflict in West Asia has created some challenges related to international travel. Flight disruptions in the region have already impacted cricket teams recently, highlighting how geopolitical developments can indirectly influence the sport.

One such example occurred after the T20 World Cup held in India, when the West Indies team reportedly faced delays in departing the country due to cancelled flights connected to the conflict zone. Situations like these have raised concerns about the travel arrangements of overseas players participating in IPL 2026.

Despite these complications, the BCCI remains confident that the tournament’s operations will proceed smoothly. The board is expected to closely monitor the situation and coordinate with airlines and government authorities to ensure that players and support staff can travel safely.

Also READ: Anil Kumble names 2 greatest teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL)

RCB to take on MI in the opening clash of IPL 2026

Earlier, the BCCI released the fixtures for the opening phase of IPL 2026, which will run from March 28 to April 12. A total of 20 matches will be played during this period across multiple venues.

The season will begin with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The clash is expected to set the tone for another highly anticipated season of the world’s most popular franchise-based T20 league.

Also READ: Faf du Plessis picks a player who will be ‘under most pressure’ in IPL 2026

Legendary Indian spinner and former captain Anil Kumble has weighed in on one of the most debated topics in franchise cricket — which team stands as the greatest in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to Kumble, it is almost impossible to separate two of the league’s most iconic franchises, as he placed them at the very top of the IPL’s all-time rankings. The former leg-spinner believes both teams have created their own legacy through different strategies while achieving remarkable success.

Anil Kumble reveals greatest teams in IPL history

Speaking on JioStar, Kumble went with Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings and explained that comparing Mumbai and Chennai is extremely difficult because both franchises have dominated the league across different eras. With five titles each to their name, MI and CSK remain the most successful teams in IPL history, setting benchmarks for consistency and excellence.

Kumble noted that while fans often try to debate which team is superior, the reality is that their achievements place them on nearly equal footing. According to him, their dominance has been built on strong leadership, smart management, and well-defined team philosophies.

“MI is very close to, or almost the same as CSK when you talk about the greatest team in the IPL, because you can’t really distinguish one from the other,” Kumble said while discussing the two powerhouses of the league.

A legacy shaped by stability and experienced players

Kumble pointed out that Chennai have built their success primarily through consistency in team selection and reliance on experienced players. Over the years, the franchise has been known for backing proven performers rather than making frequent changes to the squad.

This approach has helped CSK maintain stability and continuity, allowing players to perform with clarity and confidence. Kumble noted that only recently has the franchise started bringing in more young players, but the core philosophy of trusting experienced campaigners has remained intact.

That strategy has worked remarkably well for the team, enabling them to remain competitive almost every season and build one of the strongest fan bases in the tournament.

“CSK has always been consistent with their selections. They go for people who have been there and done that. Only last year did we see a few youngsters come through,” said Kumble.

Also READ: IPL 2026: BCCI announces schedule for the first phase; RCB to take on SRH in the opening contest

The blueprint of discovering and building future stars

While CSK focused on experience, Kumble highlighted that Mumbai Indians followed a slightly different path. The franchise gained a reputation for identifying raw talent and developing them into world-class players. Several prominent names in Indian cricket rose through MI’s scouting system, including Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya and Jasprit Bumrah, who all emerged from the franchise’s talent pipeline before becoming major international stars.

Kumble also referenced younger players who made a strong impact for MI in recent seasons, including Nehal Wadhera, who impressed with his performances before moving to a new franchise. According to Kumble, this ability to discover and nurture players has been a defining feature of Mumbai’s long-term success in the IPL.

“Whereas MI has gone slightly out and looked at players whom nobody had seen before, some who had done well at the domestic level. So people like Hardik, Krunal and Jasprit all came through those ranks. And then we saw what happened. Recently, you had the likes of Nehal Wadhera, who has now moved to PBKS, but performed really well for MI,” added Kumble.

Also READ: Will MS Dhoni play entire IPL 2026 season? CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan reveals big update on veteran star

The euphoria of India’s T20 World Cup 2026 victory has been met with an unexpected legal shadow for one of its primary architects, Hardik Pandya. While the nation remains in a state of jubilation following a historic win at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the star all-rounder has found himself at the centre of a controversy involving the national flag and his personal celebrations on the field.

Controversy erupts as a complaint targets Hardik Pandya over disrespect for national flag during T20 World Cup celebrations

Pandya is facing a formal legal complaint filed at the Shivaji Nagar police station in Bengaluru. The complaint, spearheaded by Pune-based advocate Wajed Khan Bidkar, alleges that the cricketer disrespected the Indian national flag during the high-octane post-match celebrations in Ahmedabad.

According to the complainant, the issue stems from viral social media footage showing Pandya celebrating with his rumoured girlfriend, actress Mahieka Sharma. The legal filing asserts that while Pandya was draped in the Tricolour, a common sight for victorious athletes, his subsequent actions crossed a legal and ethical line. Bidkar claims that Pandya was seen lying down on a celebratory stage with Sharma while still wearing the national flag on his back.

“According to Section 2 of the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, we must uphold the dignity of the national flag,” Advocate Bidkar stated to ANI. He argued that the act of lying down on the ground while draped in the flag during a personal moment of celebration constituted an insult to the national symbol. Although local authorities initially questioned the jurisdiction of the complaint since the event occurred in Ahmedabad, Bidkar maintained that because the flag represents the entire nation, the complaint remains valid in Bengaluru. The police have officially accepted the document and provided a copy to the petitioner.

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir hits back at Kirti Azad for questioning India team’s temple visit after T20 World Cup 2026 triumph

Pandya’s all-round heroics in the T20 World Cup 2026

The legal scrutiny comes at a time when Pandya’s stock as a cricketer has never been higher. His performance throughout the T20 World Cup 2026 was nothing short of legendary, cementing his status as perhaps the world’s premier white-ball all-rounder.

Throughout the tournament, Pandya acted as the clutch player India desperately needed. In the final at Ahmedabad, his explosive hitting in the death overs propelled India to a competitive total, while his knack for breaking crucial partnerships with the ball dismantled the opposition’s chase. His ability to maintain a strike rate of over 150 while consistently clocking speeds of 140 kph made him the tournament’s standout performer.

While the cricketing world debates his tactical genius on the pitch, the legal world is now debating his conduct off it. As the investigation into the complaint proceeds, fans remain divided between those who view the act as an innocent oversight in the heat of a historic moment and those who believe national symbols require stricter adherence to protocol.

Also READ: Mohammad Kaif picks India’s next T20I captain after Suryakumar Yadav

The excitement around the Indian Premier League (IPL) is already reaching fever pitch as the 2026 season draws closer. With franchises finalizing strategies and fans eagerly waiting for the opening games, attention has shifted to the star players who could shape the tournament. Every IPL season brings massive expectations, especially for high-profile players and captains who carry the hopes of their teams. With big contracts, leadership responsibilities and the spotlight of millions of fans, pressure becomes an unavoidable part of the competition.

IPL 2026 promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in the league’s history. Several young talents are ready to make their mark, while established stars will once again aim to dominate the tournament. However, with expectations comes responsibility, and some players will face greater scrutiny than others as they look to prove their value to their franchises. According to former South African captain Faf du Plessis, one particular player will be carrying the heaviest burden heading into the new season.

Faf du Plessis picks a player who will be under intense pressure in IPL 2026

During a discussion on Star Sports, Du Plessis shared his views on which cricketer could be under the most pressure in IPL 2026. The veteran batter pointed towards Rishabh Pant, who leads Lucknow Super Giants.

Du Plessis explained that Pant faces a unique challenge because he must deliver both as a batter and as a captain. According to him, the expectations surrounding Pant have grown due to his leadership role and the price-tag pressure that often accompanies star players in the IPL. He noted that some players thrive under the pressure of big expectations, while others struggle to find rhythm when the spotlight intensifies.

“For me, he is probably the player in the IPL who’s under the most pressure this season. We always talk about the price-tag pressure. Some guys flourish under that price-tag pressure, and some guys don’t. The last season for him was a real tough season. The team struggled and his runs also struggled, the way that he batted,” said Du Plessis.

The former South African skipper also pointed out that Lucknow endured a difficult campaign in IPL 2025, which further increases the responsibility on Pant’s shoulders. The franchise finished seventh on the points table and failed to qualify for the playoffs, making the upcoming season crucial for both the captain and the team.

“So there is all that pressure when he comes into this season, and the expectation on what the team is going to do. With a batting-heavy team, how are they going to maximize the bowling? If he is scoring runs as a captain, it takes pressure off you in the first instance, but then there is the second instance, which is the team, and last year, both of those had big red crosses to their names,” added the former South African skipper.

Lucknow will begin their IPL 2026 journey with a home clash against Delhi Capitals on April 1, a match that will immediately put the spotlight on Pant’s leadership.

Also READ: IPL 2026: BCCI announces schedule for the first phase; RCB to take on SRH in the opening contest

Expectations high from the star wicketkeeper batter

Pant’s individual performance last season also contributed to the pressure surrounding him. The aggressive wicketkeeper-batter scored 269 runs in 13 innings during IPL 2025 at an average of 24.45, numbers that fell below the standards fans have come to expect from him.

For a player known for his explosive batting and fearless approach, the season proved to be a challenging one. The struggles with the bat coincided with Lucknow’s inconsistent results, making it a campaign the team would prefer to forget.

However, Pant ended the season on a strong note with a brilliant unbeaten 118 off 61 balls against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final league match. That innings reminded fans of his match-winning ability and offered a glimpse of what he can achieve when in form.

As IPL 2026 approaches, expectations from Pant remain sky-high. Supporters of the Lucknow franchise will be hoping their captain rediscovers his best form and leads the side with confidence.

Also READ: Sanjay Bangar names his playing XI of Punjab Kings for IPL 2026

The legends are back under the lights! After a high-octane opener, the Legends League Cricket 2026 moves to the scenic Haldwani for a clash of titans. It’s the battle between the gritty Royal Riders Punjab, led by the explosive Thisara Perera, and the flair of the India Tigers, captained by the ‘Universe Boss’ himself, Chris Gayle.

With a blend of IPL veterans and international stalwarts, this isn’t just a nostalgia trip, it’s a points-table battle where every run counts toward the championship trophy.

Royal Riders Punjab have a heavy Sri Lankan influence with the likes of Seekkuge Prasanna and Angelo Perera, providing them with elite spin-bowling options and middle-order stability. The inclusion of Asghar Afghan adds much-needed experience in high-pressure finishes.

India Tigers look like a “Who’s Who” of T20 royalty. With Robin Uthappa and Tilakratne Dilshan likely to open or bat top three, they have perhaps the most aggressive top order in the tournament. Pawan Negi and Samit Patel offer incredible balance as genuine all-rounders.

Royal Riders Punjab vs India Tigers: Match Details

• Date and Time: March 12; 2:00 pm GMT/ 7:30 pm IST
• Venue: Indira Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Haldwani

Royal Riders Punjab vs India Tigers Head to Head Record

Royal Riders Punjab and India Tigers are set to face each other for the first time, with no previous head-to-head record between the two sides.

Indira Gandhi International Cricket Stadium Pitch Report

The pitch at the Indira Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Haldwani is expected to offer a fairly even contest between bat and ball. Fast bowlers could enjoy some early assistance with the new ball, as the surface may provide a bit of movement and bounce during the opening stages of the innings. Once the batters get accustomed to the conditions, scoring should become easier. The reliable bounce is likely to help stroke-makers play their shots freely and settle into longer innings.

As the match moves forward, the nature of the surface could shift slightly, allowing spinners to play a more influential role. A hint of turn may develop, making batting more demanding in the latter part of the game. Overall, the conditions at the venue are expected to set the stage for a competitive contest, where both batters and bowlers can make a strong impact depending on how well they adjust to the changing pitch behaviour.

Squads

Royal Riders Punjab: Thisara Perera (c), Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishi Dhawan, Angelo Perera, Chaturanga De Silva, Trevon Griffith, Seekkuge Prasanna, Asghar Afghan, Mark Deyal, William Perkins, Anureet Singh, Farman Ahmed, Ayaan Khan, M.S Shahzad, Pawan Suyal, Sarul Kanwar, Aftab Alam, Samiullah Shinwari.

India Tigers: Chris Gayle (c), Robin Uthappa, Tilakratne Dilshan, Pawan Negi, Amitoze Singh, Akalanka Ganegama, Samit Patel, Shahbaz Nadeem, Ambati Rayudu, Jeevan Mendis, Milinda Siriwardana, Kuldeep Hooda, Thilan Thushara, Abhimanyu Mithun, Shadab Jakati, Abu Nechim, Kirk Edwards, Kamau Leverock, Sumit Singh, Amit Paunikar.

Also READ: Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2026 Squads: Players list and Captains of all six teams

Royal Riders Punjab vs India Tigers: Today’s match prediction

Case 1:

• Royal Riders Punjab wins the toss and bats first
• Royal Riders Punjab’s powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• Royal Riders Punjab’s total score: 190-200

Case 2:

• India Tigers wins the toss and bats first
• India Tigers’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• India Tigers’ total score: 180-190

Match result: Royal Riders Punjab to win the contest.

Also READ: Legend League Cricket 2026 Schedule, Broadcast and Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Australia & USA

The inaugural Women’s Hundred Auction for the 2026 season took place on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Piccadilly Lights in London. This marked a historic shift from the previous draft system to an IPL-style auction model, fueled by new private investment and several franchises being rebranded to reflect their IPL-affiliated owners.

Sophie Devine and Beth Mooney lead a record-breaking day

The single biggest storyline of the auction was the attention two prominent stars recieved. With private equity pouring into the league and the franchises, the women’s team salary pots were doubled to a substantial £880,000 each. This created intense bidding wars that pushed the top player prices to unprecedented levels. The day’s ultimate prize was shared by two stalwarts of the international game – Sophie Devine (£210,000) and Beth Mooney (£210,000).

The New Zealand powerhouse’s explosive batting and clever medium-pace make her a complete package. Devine’s addition gives Welsh Fire an incredible X-factor and captaincy option, justifying her status as the joint-most expensive signing. Similarly, Mooney, one of the most consistent run-scorer in T20 cricket, offers stability and firepower at the top of the order. The Australian wicketkeeper-batter’s move to Nottingham is a massive statement from the Rockets.

Deepti Sharma and Richa Ghosh headline new signings

While blockbuster stars like Smriti Mandhana (Manchester Super Giants) and Amelia Kerr (MI London) were already retained by their teams, the auction was the only path for many other top-tier internationals. The South African all-rounder Nadine de Klerk was another player in high demand, securing a massive £170,000 deal for her batting and crucial death-over bowling. Following Deepti Sharma‘s pre-retention by Sunrisers Leeds (£27,500), the wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh was another significant buy, joining the Manchester Super Giants for £50,000. These signings continue to deepen the links between English and Indian domestic cricket.

Also READ: Sophie Devine, Suzie Bates and Lea Tahuhu return to fold as New Zealand announces squad for South Africa Women’s T20I series

Complete list of Sold players at The Hundred 2026 auction

Also READ: Tahlia Wilson earns maiden call-up as Australia Women announce squad for West Indies white-ball tour

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.